More unusual bulbs for summer

Eucomis bicolor AGM

An exotic-looking plant. Thick stems are smothered in masses of star-like ivory flowers with purple markings and a top knot of foliage – hence the common name: pineapple flower. Borderline hardy; plant in pots with the bulb sitting just below the surface.

HxS:1½ftx8in

(45x20cm).

Ixia ‘Mabel’

Tender corms produce wafty, slender stems and dainty deep pink blooms – a bit like delicate gladioli. Loves light, sandy soils; if you don’t have great drainage, grow in containers (use a mix of John Innes

No2 compost with coarse sand and horticultural grit) or treat as an annual. HxS: 2ftx3in

(60x8cm).

Galtonia candicans

AGM Known as the summer hyacinth because of its fragrant white, bellshaped flowers, which dangle from towering, upright stems. Surprisingly hardy; plants don’t like heavy, wet soil, so you’ll need to lift them in autumn for replanting in spring.

HxS: 4ftx16in (1.2mx40cm).

Polianthes tuberosa

Try this tender tuber for highly fragrant, double white flowers on tall stems. Plant in succession from Feb to May in a warm greenhouse or conservatory, or on a sunny windowsill. Allow the bulb’s neck to protrude above the compost, which should be gritty. HxS: 4ftx8in (1.2mx20cm).